The World Bank has announced the appointment of Johannes Zutt as the new Vice President for the South Asia Region, effective July 1, 2025. He succeeds Martin Raiser in this role.
In his new position, Mr. Zutt will oversee the World Bank's relations with Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. He will manage a portfolio valued at $39 billion that includes projects, technical assistance, and financial resources.
Mr. Zutt stated: “I am delighted to see the strong development progress that South Asia has achieved in the 10 years since I last worked in the region.” He added: “I look forward to this new opportunity to contribute and to once again experience the warmth of the region’s people and the richness of its cultures.”
A Dutch national who joined the World Bank in 1999, Mr. Zutt has held various roles within the organization. Most recently, he served as Country Director for Brazil. His previous positions include Director for Strategy, Results, Risk and Learning in Operational Policy and Country Services (OPCS) Vice Presidency. He also served as Country Director for Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal; Türkiye; Comoros; Eritrea; Kenya; Rwanda; Seychelles; and Somalia.
Mr. Zutt holds a B.A. and M.A. in Philosophy from the University of Toronto, a Law degree from Harvard University, and a Doctorate in Philosophy from Oxford University.
He will be based in New Delhi, India—a move aligned with the World Bank’s strategy to decentralize operations closer to clients for improved service delivery.